LOCUST X3 Laser Weapon System

Full Specifications

The LOCUST X3 is a third generation high energy laser weapon system developed by AeroVironment for counter unmanned aircraft defense. Designed to address Group 1 through Group 3 UAS, the system uses directed energy rather than conventional interceptors to provide rapid and repeatable engagements. Its laser effect can be delivered at the speed of light, while its ability to engage targets is primarily limited by available electrical power rather than a conventional ammunition magazine.

The system combines a scalable 20 to 35+ kW laser with a modular beam director, advanced sensors and AI enabled detection, tracking and engagement automation. AeroVironment’s AV_Halo PINPOINT software provides precision acquisition, pointing and tracking against maneuvering aerial targets. The MOSA based architecture is intended to simplify upgrades and integration with different fixed and mobile platforms.

Manufacturer

LOCUST X3 is manufactured by AeroVironment, Inc., a U.S. defense technology company headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. The company developed the system from its earlier LOCUST family and has demonstrated related systems through U.S. Army programs including AMP HEL and PHEL. LOCUST has also been demonstrated aboard the USS George H.W. Bush, showing its potential for multi domain applications.

Speed and Range

As a laser weapon, LOCUST X3 does not have a projectile flight speed or conventional missile range. Its engagement effect travels at the speed of light. AeroVironment publicly describes the system as providing persistent counter UAS and point defense, but does not publish a fixed maximum effective engagement range. Actual performance depends on target characteristics, atmospheric conditions, laser power and tracking conditions.

Cost/Price

AeroVironment states that LOCUST engagements can cost less than $5 per shot, although the total system procurement cost is substantially higher. On September 2, 2026, the U.S. Army awarded AeroVironment a $464.8 million Enduring High Energy Laser contract covering dozens of LOCUST X3 systems over several years. A specific unit price has not been publicly disclosed.

LOCUST X3 Laser Price

The publicly announced $464.8 million Army contract covers the broader E HEL procurement and support effort, so it should not be treated as the individual price of one LOCUST X3 system.